Receive the latest music updates in your inbox

With no host for tonight's MTV Video Music Awards, it's all about the performances -- and this year we can look forward to some pretty good ones.

E! Online reports that Kanye West and Jay-Z , fresh off their "Watch the Throne" release, will give a surprise performance. Mum's the word on when they'll perform during the broadcast, but so far Lady Gaga is still being billed as the opening act. Plus Adele, L'il Wayne and Bruno Mars among others are on the docket -- sounds good right?

The Craziest VMA Moments Ever

The show also will feature tributes to Britney Spears -- getting a lifetime achievement award -- and Amy Winehouse.

And while not technically "performers," the cast of "Jersey Shore" will be there, courtesy a private jet ride from MTV, which was taking no chances with Hurricane Irene affecting their show, even in far away LA. You can always pretty much expect to be entertained by that crew.

Fist Pumps for "Jersey Shore" The Final Season

As for the awards, the hottest Moonman contenders are: Katy Perry with nine nominations, and Adele with seven and Kanye with six.

Red carpet coverage on MTV starts at 8 p.m. ET, or you can watch it online on the MTV.com, and the show itself airs at 9 p.m. ET.